What To Look For
Cannondale is a well-known, reputable bike manufacturer that offers a full range of mountain and road bikes. In terms of mountain bikes, its line is divided into four distinct categories: All Mountain, Marathon, XC Racing and Hardtail. The first thing to consider when purchasing a Cannondale mountain bike is the style of riding you intend to do. Cannondale's all mountain bikes are designed for big jumps and drops, offering generous amounts of travel and sturdy (heavy) design. Marathon bikes are more nimble and powerful, designed for endurance races and major trail rides. XC Racing bikes are lightweight. Cross country bikes are designed for speed and performance. Hardtails save additional weight by dropping rear suspension. Rear suspension isn't necessary for all trail riding but is a big advantage when riding rough, unforgiving terrain. In addition to its road and mountain bike categories, Cannondale also offers a women's line and an urban/recreation line. Another aspect of Cannondale bikes to consider is many of its bikes use Cannondale parts, such as its Lefty fork, a one-sided fork that cuts weight by limiting size. Cannondale also uses a variety of other fine components on its bikes, including Shimano and SRAM drive train parts, Fox shocks and Mavic rims. Cannondale frames are crafted of high-performance, lightweight materials such as alloy and carbon. Be sure the bike you're interested in offers the build and components that meet your demands.
Common Pitfalls
Spend time shopping and comparing different models of Cannondale bikes with other bike manufacturers. Don't just get sold on the Cannondale name; get sold on the bike itself. Get fitted by a reputable bike shop, adjust the bike and give a full test ride. Compare the bike to similarly priced models to get a feel for which one you like best. Consider price, style, components, fit/comfort, weight and overall feel when choosing your bike.
Where To Buy
Always purchase your bike at a reputable, authorized Cannondale dealer. You can find Cannondale at a wide variety of bike shops. There's likely a shop near you that carries Cannondale bikes. Use the dealer locator function to search for dealers near you. Alternately, contact your local bike shop(s) and ask if it carries the brand, and which models it stocks.
Cost
Cannondale offers most of its specific models at a variety of price points, designated by "1" (highest performance, most expensive), "2," etc. Hardtails are the cheapest option in terms of 2010 mountain bikes; you'll find prices starting at $469. Marathon bikes are priced from $1,919 to $3,849. XC Racing bikes range from $2,899 to $8,499. The All Mountain series of bikes is priced from $1,919 to $6,899. Final prices are generally determined by the individual shop, so don't hesitate to negotiate.
Accessories
In addition to its bikes, Cannondale offers a full line of accessories including its Headshok forks, clothing, water bottles and cages and computers. Some accessories you'll definitely want to consider when purchasing a new bike are a water bottle cage, saddle bag and bike lock. Cannondale offers all of those accessories. The company also offers pumps and tools.
